Easter Weekend

 There is now no question that winter is over. The frogspawn has turned into tadpoles and green growth is on every plant. The question of what to weed and what to leave is not one to worry about. My patches of annual cornfield flowers are weeded to keep out other annuals that I don't want. On the other hand some traditional "weeds" are welcome in the garden. Fortunately our neighbour has a wonderful display of dandelions, so I do not need to encourage them. But they are a vibrant yellow, and invaluable food for insects. Here is Wordsworth's view on the subject.

On display in Wordsworth's large garden at Rydal Mount

One thing I cannot claim is green fingers. Last year I planted lots of snakes-head fritillary corms, in the patches of rough grass. Now there has come up only one. Still, it is very welcome. One of my favourite spring flowers is wild primroses; none of the plants I have put in here have lasted. Fortunately they are still abundant in many woods, and I shall keep trying. I often think, while  out in the country - "Now there's an idea for the garden."

Not our garden, but what an inspiration.

I am always pleased to see insects. Various bumblebees have arrived. During the strict lock-down two years ago I determined to identify all bumblebees that arrived; I did not find it easy. Perhaps this will be the subject of my next blog-post.

The comparative shortage of small birds continues. Nor can I show you any birds eggs. I do not think there is a place in the garden where I could put a nest-box that would be safe from cats. If you can, please do. Our various small thickets may or may not be used for nesting one day, but prowling cats and foxes mean it is not altogether a safe place.

Cats are not welcome. Some predators are. (I doubt if there is much ethical logic in this.) A few days ago a sparrow-hawk sat on the fence for several minutes before moving on. Maybe the small birds are right to be cautious about using our feeders.